
About
Ridgway Independent Guide Service LLC (RIGS) was founded in 2001. RIGS is a family business, built from the ground up, with extensive industry knowledge and years of hard guide work throughout the industry. RIGS recognizes that access to quality waters is one of the most important resources for the business. RIGS successfully received the first permit for guided fly fishing and rafting on the Uncompahgre River in 2002 and has lead the charge in acquiring Western Colorado’s top Public & Private guide access.
Our Public Land Partners include: US Forest Service, US National Park Service, US Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and Colorado State Parks, giving our guests a wide range of quality waters to pick from, with year-round access to diverse rivers, streams, creeks, and still-waters.
Owner, Tim Patterson has led fly fishing, rafting, and eco-tours throughout Central America, Mexico, and the Southwestern U. S. since 1991. Patterson’s degree in Recreation Management from Prescott College set the stage for a career in adventure guiding and a passion for keeping tight lines on home waters. “It’s not just about the fishing, it’s about the people,” Patterson says. “Our activities are kind of a metaphor for life. They can teach patience, strategy, versatility, and adaptability to conditions.”
Our Walk Wade Fly Fishing, Whitewater Rafting & Inflatable Kayak Trips are another “first of its kind” access for the region! RIGS was the first permit outfitter at Pa Co Chu Puk and is the only permitted Rafting Outfitter on the Uncompahgre River and maintains quality permits on unique sections of the Gunnison & San Miguel River as well.